Karsha Monastery

Karsha Monastery, the largest Gelugpa monastery in the Zanskar valley, is about 8 kms north of Padum.

Karsha Monastery

The monastery was founded by Phagspa Sherab in the 11th century.

Lamaji on his way back from the market

This monastery is now managed by the Dalai Lama’s younger brother.

Starting young

The monastery holds the Karsha Gustor festival for 4 days from the 26th to the 29th day of the 11th Tibetan month, which usually falls in January.

Door leading to the inner sanctum

Inside the monastery

The monastery has some of the most exquisite wall paintings done by the Lama Dzadpa Dorje.

Wall painting

Idol

Sacred texts